Coalition Warns Nigerian Police, Security Forces Against Using Force on June 12 Protesters
A coalition of civil society groups has issued a strong warning to Nigerian security agencies ahead of the planned June 12 demonstrations, urging authorities not to use force against peaceful protesters.
In an open letter dated June 2, the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity cautioned the Nigeria Police Force, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other security bodies against any acts of repression during the protests.
The Take It Back Movement, one of the organizers, has declared June 12 a “National Day of Resistance” to protest what it describes as tyranny and poor governance under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“This government has betrayed the democratic ideals for which Nigerians fought and died,” said Juwon Sanyaolu, the movement’s National Coordinator.
The coalition emphasized that peaceful protest and freedom of expression are fundamental rights enshrined in Section 40 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, and also protected by international frameworks such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The letter reads in part:
“We strongly warn against the use of excessive force, deployment of lethal weapons, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, or any attempt to criminalize peaceful protest.”
The coalition vowed that any security personnel or authorities involved in abuses would be held accountable. It said civil society organizations would track and document incidents, and refer any violations to both national and international legal and human rights bodies.
“No one who commits violence against peaceful demonstrators will go unpunished. We will ensure full accountability,” the letter stated.
The coalition also called on protesters to remain peaceful, obey the law, and document any abuse or harassment they witness. It revealed that legal and human rights teams were being mobilized to provide support to victims and pursue justice.
“We remind the Nigerian Government that June 12 is a symbol of democratic resistance. It must not be stained again with the blood of innocent citizens.”
The coalition demanded a firm commitment from the Inspector General of Police and other security chiefs to prevent the use of force and protect the rights of demonstrators nationwide.
“No accidental discharge. No stray bullets. No excuses. There must be full accountability for any violations during the June 12 protests,” it concluded.
“The whole world is watching. Choose the path of law, dialogue, and restraint—not repression.”
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